School of Social Work Dean honored with two awards

Dr. Noreen Mokuau, Dean of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Myron B. Thompson School of Social Work, is the recipient of two recent awards.

First, she is one of three winners of a prestigious ‘Ō‘ō Award from the Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce. The other two honorees are clinical oncologist Dr. Clayton Chong and master navigator Nainoa Thompson.

The ‘ō‘ō is the Chamber's symbol for recognizing Hawaiian individuals whose skillful use of their talent results in professional and industry success, and whose commitment to the community helps Hawaiians to grow and thrive. Mokuau was lauded for her work as a Native Hawaiian educator and researcher who has made substantial contributions to education and scholarship related to social justice, and to the health and well-being of Native Hawaiians and the people of Hawai`i.

Second, Mokuau accepted the National Association of Social Workers-Hawaiʻi Chapter's Lifetime Educator Award in recognition of her significant achievements over her 30-plus years at the School of Social Work. As a scholar, mentor and teacher, Mokuau’s interests in cultural competency centers on social justice issues, including health disparities among Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander and Asian populations, as well as care-giving issues for culturally diverse elders.

“We know that awards are never about the accomplishments of one person but instead are a reflection of many people," said Mokuau, a Nuuanu resident. "Awards are about the gifts of Ke Akua, ʻohana, and all of the people who have taken the huaka'i with me to improve the lives of others."